The Creanimators

On Easter Sunday 26 participants from 10 different countries around Europe came to Bollington (UK) for a 6-day European training course for (international) animators ran by Don Bosco Youth-Net. The training course aimed to train animators to apply Human Rights Education in their normal practice of animation during their summer activities.

“All week we were led in brilliant sessions by the fantastic DBYN trainers which helped us to learn that its actually very simple to introduce Human Rights in our animation with the young people we work with, or will work with. The sessions I enjoyed most were when in small groups or pairs we had to invent or reimagine a game using the ‘Team Paco’ method, ensuring that all games we use are fun and fair. I learnt so much by watching the other participants and learning how they interact with their own young people. We also spoke a lot about culture and how we experience cultures in different countries, but also different environments and issues that young people are faced with in order for us to understand some of the difficulties they might be going through.” Siobhan Garth

The first couple of days the participants got input on animation, intercultural learning and Human Rights Education. Furthermore they got to know DBYN’s educational style, safeguarding and conflict management through non-formal methods to facilitate the learning process. The trainers used simulation games, role plays and the use of several methods from COMPASS, Compasito, Gender Matters, …

Partner organisations

A lot of interesting resources that the participants could use during the training course and when they go back home. Not only the trainers gave input, the participants shared own games and energizers from their countries. After exchanging and sharing information with each other, the participants go into mixed groups and were challenged to develop new animation methods or new games were they had to keep in mind all the previous input. Friday was a day full of games and animation. The sessions were led by the participants who developed a specific type of summer activity, for different age groups and using Human Rights as a resource (through the consultation of COMPASS, Compasito, Gender matters …). The learning process was closed with a creative (w)rap up of the week done by the participants.“There were lots of interesting sessions, including safeguarding, and conflict resolution which we can use in our own oratories, playgrounds and centres and as we were given the space to really discuss what we all thought, this led to meaningful conversations which weren't finished at the end of each session, but were often still being spoken about hours later over the dinner table. Even though all the participants had come from a different range of experiences or backgrounds, I feel as though everyone learnt from each other. Every day began and ended with a Salesian good morning and good night which gave us the space to reflect on the day we had just shared and a moment to give thanks to God for all we’ve done together.” Siobhan GarthThese participants will be active as Creanimators during their summer activities of our member organisations where they will develop and apply Human Rights animation methods with their (inter)national peers. During the summer exchange they will develop and implement VLOG videos sharing their experiences and raising awareness on the possibilities of HRE in animation!This is just the beginning!

Objectives

To train animators in applying Human Rights Education in their normal practice of animation on summer activities

To develop new methods for animation based on Human Rights Education.

To develop and implement a Vlog campaign raising awareness on the possibilities of HRE in animation

To build the capacity of DBYN as a network and its member organisation in animation and HRE

Evaluation

The participants were asked to complete an online evaluation form. Here you can find the outcomes of the evaluation of the Creanimator TC.

Programme

Training manual

Venue

Savio House is a Salesian retreat centre for groups of young people and adults who want to enjoy some time of reflection away from the busyness of everyday life. The retreat experience allows young people to develop the confidence to be themselves, understand their gifts and the meaning of faith in their lives. The gentle, relaxed and fun atmosphere provides the backdrop to renew friendships, strengthen self-esteem and help young people meet life with more resilience, so that they can build a better world.

Set in the stunning Cheshire countryside near Macclesfield and run by the Salesian community and young volunteers, Savio House offers fully-catered residential in the Coach House and Mews. There are also self-catering facilities available for private hire in the Barn.

Gallery

Disclaimer

The international secretariat of Don Bosco Youth-Net ivzw is financially supported by the European Union, through its ‘Erasmus+ Youth in Action’-programme, and by the Council of Europe, through its 'European Youth Foundation'. ﻿This publication reflects the views only of the author, and neither the Commission nor the Council of Europe can be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.